How to Grow Hardy Kiwi: Planting, Spacing, Care & Harvest
Quick answer
Transplant established container plants after frost danger the following season (OSU). Dormant planting in early spring. New shoots damaged at about 30°F (OSU/WI). Focus: hardy kiwi (Actinidia arguta).
Kiwi at a glance
Weeks relative to last frost (LF). Colored weeks show when our ZIP planner schedules each step.
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Planting dates for your ZIP: the ZIP planting planner counts each window from your local frost dates.
Organic pests and diseases: see also organic pest control. Use any product as the label directs.
Hardy kiwi: this page focuses on Actinidia arguta, not fuzzy tropical supermarket kiwi culture.
Planting timing
Ohio State: grow in 5-gallon containers first season; “transplanted only after they have become well established late in the first growing season or after the danger of frost has passed the following season.” Young shoots/buds killed by brief 30°F. (OSU hardy kiwi) Wisconsin: dormant hardy to about −25°F; shoots/buds damaged in 30 minutes at 30°F. (WI kiwifruit) Dormant plants can go in early spring; wait on leafed-out stock until frost risk passes.
Depth and spacing
Vines need sturdy trellis; male and female plants for fruit on many cultivars.
Sun, soil and water
Full sun; well-drained soil. Long frost-free season helps fruit (~150 days WI).
Care
Protect early shoots from late spring freezes near 30°F.
Harvest
Harvest when fruit softens and sweetens for the type.
Pests and diseases
Cultural site and freeze protection for new growth first.
Related: ZIP planner · all grow guides · organic pest control
Frequently asked questions
When do I transplant containers?
After frost danger the following season (OSU).
Dormant plant OK?
Early spring; watch 30°F shoot damage.
Fuzzy kiwi?
This page is hardy A. arguta.
More grow guides: All grow guides
Sources
- Ohio State University Extension: OSU hardy kiwi
- University of Wisconsin–Madison Extension: WI kiwifruit